The Pursuit of Happiness Through the Humanities

  • Epicurus and the Philosophy of Pleasure (Philosophy)
    300 BCE

    Epicurus and the Philosophy of Pleasure (Philosophy)

    Epicurus taught that happiness comes from simple pleasures and avoiding pain. His ideas shaped how we understand joy as peace of mind and freedom from fear.
  • Children’s Games by Pieter Bruegel the Elder (Art History)
    1560

    Children’s Games by Pieter Bruegel the Elder (Art History)

    This painting shows over 80 different games played by children. It celebrates the innocence and joy of childhood through movement, community, and play.
  • Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes (Literature)

    Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes (Literature)

    Don Quixote finds joy in imagination and idealism, showing that happiness can come from believing in something greater than reality, even if others see it as foolish.
  • Haiku Poems by Matsuo Bashō (Literature)

    Haiku Poems by Matsuo Bashō (Literature)

    Bashō’s short poems celebrate happiness in nature and the present moment. His work reflects peace, mindfulness, and the beauty of everyday life.
  • Rousseau’s “Noble Savage” Idea (Philosophy)

    Rousseau’s “Noble Savage” Idea (Philosophy)

    Rousseau believed humans are happiest in nature, free from society’s corruption. His ideas connect happiness to simplicity, freedom, and natural living.
  • The Swing by Jean-Honoré Fragonard (Art History)

    The Swing by Jean-Honoré Fragonard (Art History)

    A playful and romantic painting that captures carefree happiness, flirtation, and the joy of movement in a lush garden setting.
  • The Marriage of Figaro by Beaumarchais (Theater)

    The Marriage of Figaro by Beaumarchais (Theater)

    A comic opera that celebrates cleverness, love, and social freedom — all tied to the pursuit of happiness and justice.
  • French Revolution and Declaration of Rights (History)

    French Revolution and Declaration of Rights (History)

    The revolution declared the right to pursue happiness. It shows how joy became a political and human goal, tied to liberty and equality.
  • Ode to Joy by Ludwig van Beethoven (Music)

    Ode to Joy by Ludwig van Beethoven (Music)

    A powerful musical celebration of unity and happiness. It expresses joy through harmony, emotion, and the hope of universal brotherhood. https://youtu.be/-kcOpyM9cBg?si=StWtBTcu9XEn11X8
  • The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde (Theater)

    The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde (Theater)

    A witty comedy that explores happiness through humor, love, and the freedom to live authentically. Wilde uses satire to highlight the joy of being true to oneself.
  • Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy (Music)

    Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy (Music)

    A gentle and emotional piano piece that evokes peace, beauty, and inner happiness through soft tones and flowing rhythm. https://youtu.be/WNcsUNKlAKw?si=h5lzjInP8AHFQ9mM
  • Boy with a Straw Hat by Helen Levitt (Photography)

    Boy with a Straw Hat by Helen Levitt (Photography)

    Captures the spontaneity and joy of children playing in the streets of New York. It reflects happiness in ordinary moments
  • Le Baiser de l’Hôtel de Ville by Robert Doisneau (Photography)

    Le Baiser de l’Hôtel de Ville by Robert Doisneau (Photography)

    A spontaneous kiss in Paris. This photo captures love and everyday happiness in a single moment of joy and connection.
  • Singin’ in the Rain (Film History)

    Singin’ in the Rain (Film History)

    A joyful musical where dancing and singing express pure happiness, even in the rain. It celebrates resilience and artistic joy. https://youtu.be/swloMVFALXw?si=40i1MHzMVLQQt0MR
  • The Red Balloon (Le Ballon Rouge) (Film History)

    The Red Balloon (Le Ballon Rouge) (Film History)

    A poetic film about a boy and his balloon. It explores imagination, friendship, and the joy of childhood in a quiet, magical way. https://youtu.be/KorAPe9TV7E?si=Izd4Gnz250PYC3W2
  • The Guggenheim Museum ''Architecture''

    The Guggenheim Museum ''Architecture''

    The Guggenheim Museum in New York City is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous works. The building has a spiral shape, where visitors walk along a continuous ramp to see the art. This design makes the museum experience feel natural and flowing. The Guggenheim shows happiness through innovation, beauty, and the pleasure of exploring art in a space that feels alive and welcoming.
  • What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong (Music)

    What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong (Music)

    A song that celebrates the beauty of everyday life and the happiness found in small things like trees, skies, and smiles. https://youtu.be/CaCSuzR4DwM?si=dniGMe-1neyegu2U